21.   Strickland returned to the Washington Wizards on Sunday after an unexcused absence that lasted nearly four days.

22.   The deal also includes more restrictions on unexcused absences of teachers, which was a board priority.

23.   The tentative agreement would also impose more restrictions on unexcused absences among teachers, a board priority.

24.   Washington Wizards point guard Rod Strickland was fined for an unexcused absence from practice Wednesday.

25.   Washington Wizards point guard Rod Strickland, fined and suspended for an exhibition game this week over an unexcused absence, was not at practice again Friday.

26.   Wilkins had several run-ins with the club over money, coaching tactics and unexcused absences.